Headlights should I try to clean or replace?
#16
Rennlist Member
I didn't realize the bulbs were replaceable on H5's, need to try cleaning mine.
#18
+1 Not to be a glutton for adoration, I didn't invent this but learned from other Marque forums (MBZs are notorious headlight clouders) Arm and Hammer peroxide toothpaste works wonders. On both headlamp covers and teeth as well.
#19
Rennlist Member
Just a warning for H4 vacuum adjusted headlights.
A few years back, a mechanic attempted to clean the silvered surface on my headlights and ended up wearing through it. I had to buy new headlights at the adjustable silvered part was not available after market. An expensive lesson.
A few years back, a mechanic attempted to clean the silvered surface on my headlights and ended up wearing through it. I had to buy new headlights at the adjustable silvered part was not available after market. An expensive lesson.
#20
Rennlist Member
I cleaned my H5's for my track car which were quite bad. I used a cleaning agent but what helped best was using a flexible shaft claw grabbing tool. I attached a blue cotton paper workshop towel to the end and using the opening for the bulb carefully worked it inside allowing it to absorb the cleaning fluid and then just twisted it around allowing me to access just about every inch of the inside. When done they looked great. Takes patience and time. You need to be careful not to bend the lamp cover though.
I am with others though regarding buying H4's or H1's instead of replacing the H5's but I have several sets of each for sale in like new condition. Pricey H1's are rare and $1900 and the H4's are AL black trim not Bosch asking $799.
I am with others though regarding buying H4's or H1's instead of replacing the H5's but I have several sets of each for sale in like new condition. Pricey H1's are rare and $1900 and the H4's are AL black trim not Bosch asking $799.
#21
Rennlist Member
Just finished putting mine back in after cleaning. Looks a lot clearer.
#22
Addict
Rennlist Member
Rennlist Member
I just cleaned mine this morning after reading this post. I used 70% Isopropyl and just poured it in and swirled it around. I used a Griots crevice tool with microfiber attachment to wipe off the majority of the lens and finished with a blower dryer on high heat for a few minutes until the inside was dry. I also cleaned the headlight buckets while I had everything out.
It’s really fairly easy to do and makes a big difference. Here’s a before and after.
It’s really fairly easy to do and makes a big difference. Here’s a before and after.